Besiktas vs Ath Bilbao Prediction & Betting Tips (22 January)

Besiktas is on the verge of exiting this Europa League but still has its destiny in hand, at least 90%. The reason? With one point behind the top 24 which would allow it to play in the play-offs, the Turkish club could in the worst case win its two remaining matches but remain outside the top 24 if its main opponents were to win the last two matches. also. However, a very improbable scenario, especially since we are talking about 7 teams engaged in the last positions. We will still remember that the Black Eagles lost their last two matches in C3 against the Norwegians of Bodo/Glimt 2-1, and Maccabi Tel Aviv at home 1-3. Note that after 3 days of the championship without finding a victory including a defeat on the field of the red lantern Demirspor 2-1, the 16 times champion of Turkey found the joy of singing in the locker room by winning 2-1 against promoted Bodrumspor 2–1 on 11 January. It remains to be seen whether Ciro Immobile's teammates will have confirmed against Samsunspor last weekend to follow. For its part, Athletic Bilbao is over-motivated in this competition since the final will be played in its stadium, at San Mamés. .

Runner-up to Lazio with 16 points, just one point today in Türkiye would be enough for Athletic to get back in front of the Italians. Victory would obviously be better because it would put more pressure on Laziale. The Basques remain on a good series of 5 successive victories in C3, against Alkmaar 2-0, Slavia Prague 1-0, in Bulgaria against Ludogorets 1-2, easily against Elfsborg 3-0, and on the Fenerbahce pitch during the previous day 0-2. Finally, apart from the draw contracted against AS Roma at the very start of the competition 1-1, Athletic Club only achieved feats. The Lions are clearly untenable, even in La Liga, being 4th in the standings, meaning they are virtually qualified for the next Champions League. Note, however, that for the Supercopa, they conceded defeat in the semi-final against the future winner of the edition, FC Barcelona 0-2, thus putting an end to their unbeaten streak of 15 matches in all competitions. Last week, Ernesto Valverde's men hosted Osasuna in the 1/8 finals of the Copa del Rey and traveled to Vigo this weekend for the championship to follow. 

Taking a glance back at recent performances, Besiktas and Athletic Bilbao seem poised for an intriguing matchup. Athletic Bilbao's recent form has been a mixed bag, with victories against Osasuna and draws against Alaves highlighting their resilience and ability to compete under pressure. However, their losses to Osasuna and Barcelona point to vulnerabilities that Besiktas could exploit. On the other hand, Besiktas, with their strong attacking lineup, might find opportunities to press Athletic Bilbao's defense, especially given the occasional defensive lapses observed in Bilbao's previous games.

Besiktas will likely capitalize on Bilbao's inconsistencies, leveraging their own balanced squad to press high and control the midfield. Athletic Bilbao's strength lies in their solid team play and strategic planning under Ernesto Valverde, which can pose a challenge for Besiktas' backline. However, if Bilbao fails to tighten up their defense and maintain consistency, Besiktas' attacking prowess could tip the scales in their favor. This clash promises to be a test of tactical acumen and individual brilliance from both sides.

Looking ahead to the upcoming clash between Besiktas and Athletic Bilbao, a 1:2 scoreline prediction in favor of Bilbao appears well-founded. Besiktas, despite their attacking flair, might struggle against the structured defense and strategic play of Athletic Bilbao. Bilbao's recent form, marked by tactical flexibility and a knack for crucial away victories, suggests they can secure a win while conceding a goal. This game promises to be a closely contested battle, with Bilbao edging out Besiktas through disciplined play and moments of brilliance.